The feminist movement was growing by leaps and bounds, telling women they didn’t need men. But I was thrilled to be fastening my life to a man. A popular song of the day was titled, “You don’t own me,” yet I loved hearing Nate call me “his Meg.” I never considered it an expression of “owning.” Instead it felt like protection and safety. While Lesley Gore sang, “Don’t tell me what to do… or say,” I was looking forward to a lifetime of asking Nate’s counsel on what to do and say. I knew I would need his stabilizing influence.
More to my liking was the song “Tenderly” from the 1940’s. “His arms opened wide and closed me inside.” I knew I would never tire of that.
July 1, 1969 – Dear Nate, the one I love. You are going to be the most fantastic of all husbands ever! I know that because you’re terrific already. You make such an effort ahead of time to please me, thinking of ways you might do that, and you inevitably hit the mark. You’re sensitive and sentimental, and I always dreamed of marrying a man who would share my joy over keepsakes, someone who would celebrate the little things along the way as well as the big things. Up until you, I hadn’t dated any guy like that. And now I get to marry him! I can’t adequately express in words what I feel – my love, admiration, and thankfulness for you.
July 1, 1969 – Dearest Meg. I had a long prayer time alone Sunday afternoon. I wish my words could convey how much closer I’ve felt to Christ through Scripture and the experiences of the last 3 weeks. With our lives and marriage based on Him, we can’t go wrong.
July 2, 1969 – Dear Nate. I think of you every minute and pray for you almost as often. Yesterday I headed for Wilmette and found Mom at home alone. While she mended clothes, we had one of those “talks” she claims we never have. She asked if we were determined to get married in November, and I didn’t hedge, saying we were. Then she surprised me with her words by saying it would all work out. But her expression said she was still upset. Again she told me her preference would be the summer of 1970, but I calmly explained our reasons for not wanting to wait. She remained unconvinced. I decided to stay for dinner, which pleased her and Dad, and I got a chance to talk privately with Dad then, too. But apparently he and Mom have been talking, and he said, “What’s the rush? Wouldn’t it be smarter to teach in Chicago one more year and save all that money?” Please continue to pray about their acceptance of all this. I know the Lord will iron it all out.
July 2, 1969 – Dearest Meg. I love you so much! This 4th of July you’ll get your ring. That will help convince your parents we’re doing the right thing. And we’ll spend 3 glorious days with each other… THE PROPOSAL! Love forever, Nate
“Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you.” (Psalm 55:22)